Introduction

Homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This easy-to-make recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully in your slow cooker, resulting in a hearty, nourishing meal without much effort. Using simple, fresh ingredients, this soup is sure to satisfy the whole family and can be customized to suit your taste.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Broth: 6 cups of chicken broth
Carrots: 2 medium carrots, sliced
Celery: 2 stalks of celery, chopped
Onion: 1 small onion, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced
Noodles: 2 cups of egg noodles
Herbs: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts into the bottom of the crockpot. You can use either fresh or frozen chicken, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Next, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery on top of the chicken. These vegetables add flavor and texture to the soup.

Step 3: Season the Ingredients

Sprinkle in dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper over the vegetables and chicken for added seasoning.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Slowly pour in chicken broth until all the ingredients in the crockpot are covered. Depending on your preference for broth thickness, you can adjust the amount.

Step 5: Cook the Soup

Set the crockpot to low and allow it to cook for 6 to 8 hours, or set it to high for 4 hours. This slow cooking process enhances the flavors.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the soup.

Step 7: Add Noodles

Finally, add uncooked egg noodles to the crockpot and stir. Let them cook for an additional 30 minutes on high, or until the noodles are tender.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Once the noodles are cooked through, stir the soup again and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Adjusting Seasoning

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Adding more herbs or spices can enhance the flavor.

Note 2: Type of Chicken

You can use bone-in chicken or a whole chicken for more flavor, but make sure to remove bones and skin before serving.

Note 3: Leftovers Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for later use.

Note 4: Additional Vegetables

Consider adding other vegetables such as peas or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.

Cook techniques

Sautéing the Vegetables

Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the crockpot enhances their flavors and adds depth to the dish.

Layering Ingredients

Layering ingredients in the crockpot helps to ensure even cooking and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Using Broth Instead of Water

Using chicken broth instead of water provides a richer and more savory base for the soup.

Adjusting Cooking Time

Adjusting the cooking time based on your crockpot’s intensity ensures that the chicken is cooked through while remaining tender.

Shredding Chicken

Shredding the chicken after cooking allows it to soak up the broth, imparting more flavor into the soup.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require additional cooking time to ensure thorough cooking.

What vegetables can I substitute?

You can substitute with other vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers based on your preference.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, the soup can be frozen in individual portions for easy reheating later.

Can I add noodles directly to the crockpot?

It’s best to cook the noodles separately or add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Conclusion

Homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup is a comforting and delicious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a warm, hearty meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re seeking a remedy for a cold or just a simple weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to satisfy.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Soup

A delightful mix of seasonal vegetables simmered to create a healthy and vibrant soup option.

Chicken and Rice Soup

Enhance your chicken noodle soup by adding rice for a fulfilling twist that offers a different texture and flavor.

Beef Stew

Switch things up with a hearty beef stew, packed with tender meat and robust vegetables simmered in a rich broth.

Split Pea Soup

A creamy and nutritious option, split pea soup is both satisfying and easy to make in the crockpot.

Lentil Soup

For a protein-packed vegetarian option, lentil soup is full of flavor and can easily be customized with spices and vegetables.

Potato Soup

Creamy potato soup is a comforting alternative, perfect for chilly evenings and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.

Minestrone Soup

A classic Italian minestrone, loaded with beans, vegetables, and pasta, can be a delightful variation to your soup repertoire.

Tomato Basil Soup

Rich and tangy tomato basil soup is a simple yet flavorful choice that pairs excellently with grilled cheese.